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Morrie Chandler, former FIA vice president for sport and World Rally Championship commission president, has died at 85. A legendary figure in motorsport, Chandler's impact extended well beyond New Zealand over a remarkable five-decade career. He began in hillclimbs with the Northern Sports Car Club, quickly rising to club president. As a key member of Motorsport New Zealand's executive board, he ensured New Zealand's spot on the WRC calendar in the 1970s and 1980s while actively competing. Chandler joined the FIA’s WRC Commission in 1983 and served as WRC Commission president and FIA vice president for sport. He played a crucial role in shaping global motorsport and fostering future talent through initiatives like the Pirelli Star Driver programme. Tributes pour in, with WRC Promoter Senior Event Director Simon Larkin calling him a titan of motorsport. In 1997, Chandler received an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions.
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